Can you give me a referral?

Most people ask me all the time, “Can you give me a referral?”

Here's the thing….I don't want to be bearer of bad news, but it’s more complicated than that. Before I can give you a simple yes or no, I need you to understand the reality of the mold industry.

The mold landscape has historically been dominated by a simple "refer and forget" model.

But in today's world, that's not enough.

Did you know that about 100% of current remediation practices FAIL when it comes to protecting occupant health? In fact, most methods like chemical fogging & mold killing treatments make the occupant’s health worse.

While referrals seem like the best starting point, relying solely on them is a recipe for frustration and potentially disastrous outcomes. This approach is a gamble with your health and property.

Here's why the referral model consistently falls short:

1. Referral Roulette: Traditionally, referrals have been the "go-to" method for finding mold inspector & remediation services. However, this approach often resembles a game of chance. You get a name, but without proper vetting, you're left hoping for a qualified and trustworthy professional.

   The problem?

   You lack the expertise to assess their competence. Buzzwords like "mold toxicity", “mycotoxins” and claims of working with "hypersensitive individuals" do not equate to real qualifications. While these phrases might sound impressive, they don't guarantee expertise. Essentially, you're trusting a stranger with your well-being based on their ability to appear knowledgeable in a complex field. You deserve more!

2. Limited Knowledge: Oftentimes the person making the "referral" usually doesn’t have in-depth knowledge regarding the company's real life business practices. They may know them on a personal level, or they may have connected through social channels or you may have a friend who used the company, but they aren’t receiving real-time customer feedback, or staying up to date with vetting their technical qualifications or specific expertise, which, in this industry— fluctuates by the project.

3. Focus on Likeability, Not Technical Expertise: Often, referrals are based on how "nice" or friendly the face of a company seems, rather than a deep understanding of the technical quality of the work performed. Mold inspection and remediation is a complex field, and friendliness or popularity doesn't equate to competence in identifying and resolving mold issues.

4. Lack of Expertise to Evaluate Results: Unfortunately, most homeowners lack the knowledge to discern whether a mold remediation company truly achieved its goals. They might base their satisfaction solely on how they feel after the service, which can be subjective and doesn't necessarily reflect the long-term effectiveness of the remediation. There are many variables at play, and without proper expertise, it's difficult to assess if a company did a good or bad job, or more importantly, if your home is truly healthy again.

   In essence, the referral model often relies on personal connections and anecdotal experiences, which can be misleading and fail to provide a clear picture of a company's technical capabilities and overall track record.

5. Blind Spots & Biases: We live in a world of influencer affiliate marketing. Often times referrals can be “influenced” by personal connections, partnerships or hidden incentives, compromising objectivity. Are they recommending the best company for you, or simply the one that pays them commission?

6. Conflicting Interests: Inspectors and remediation companies, while crucial players, have a vested financial interest in your home & your decisions. Ethically, they are limited in offering truly strategic decisions that prioritize your health and long-term well-being over immediate service needs.

7. Limited Expertise in Health Risk: Inspectors and remediation companies typically lack certifications in functional medicine and health sciences. While they can identify mold, they likely are not qualified to assess your health risks or provide guidance on mitigating them.

Our Proactive Solution: 

We believe in a more comprehensive and empowering approach. We go beyond mere name-dropping and equip you with the knowledge and resources to transform you from a passive participant to a confident Project Leader . 

This means:

1. Vetting Expertise: We offer guidance on how to evaluate inspector and remediation company credentials to ensure they meet your specific needs.

2. Knowledge is Power: Our Virtual Resource Library (VRL) offers valuable resources to understand inspector reports, how to properly interview candidates, what to expect and project management best practices. This way you can learn at your own pace outside of our sessions too!

3. Transparency Throughout: We encourage open communication to keep everyone informed every step of the way, ensuring your project aligns with your goals and budget.

Collaborative Approach to Remediation Project Management

As your project strategists, PJ & Peter are here to provide expert guidance and strategic support throughout this entire process. While we won't dictate your decisions, we'll work collaboratively to empower you to make informed choices that align with your project goals.

It's important to distinguish between project management and project strategy.

1. Project Manager: YOU

2. Project Strategist: US

In your role as project manager, you will be ultimately responsible for overseeing your home’s transformation and the remediation process.

Our role, as your project strategist, is to provide the strategic framework and resources you need to navigate this critical phase. This does include vetting potential remediation companies and their technical experience, but it's important to understand that we won't dictate their methodology, chemical use, removal processes, engineering, cleaning techniques, or scope of work. But you can request certain things if you want them.

Interpreting Industry Language & Identifying Red Flags

The world of mold and remediation is filled with technical jargon, diverse perspectives, evolving science, and a range of project-specific factors to consider. At our core, we believe in a science-based approach to remediation that prioritizes your health and well-being, and mirrors root cause principles. We'll act as your translator, interpreting industry language & ensuring you understand the proposals & recommendations presented by remediation companies.

This empowers you to ask insightful questions and make confident selections. Furthermore, we'll equip you with the knowledge to identify red flags. We'll share common pitfalls that homeowners encounter and guide you through recognizing them.

Become a Savvy Client:

We equip you to identify & avoid predatory contractors and companies. Learn how to spot red flags and assess the credibility of professionals, so friendliness doesn't mask incompetence or dishonesty.

Set Clear Goals:

We'll help you define your desired outcome, whether it's a balanced microbiome or a sterile environment.

By working together, we can ensure the project aligns with your vision and protects you from unexpected issues that might arise during the process. 

FAQ

Q: What Can I Expect If I Become A Member?

1. During the Purchase Process:

   • Paperwork: Complete Intake, Practice Guidelines & Scope of Practice, Intellectual Property & Confidentiality Agreement, Commitment to Consulting & Release of Liability Contracts. 

   • Choose Your Appt. Date & Book: 30m Strategy Call

2. 1st email: Confirmation & receipt

3. 2nd email: Join our portal

4. 3rd email: Onboarding

Your First Session w/PJ & Peter:

1. Overview: We will discuss the overall strategy of the appointment, and then pass the mic.

2. About You: You will be asked to share your story, your health, your home's history & current circumstances and finally, your goals/budget. 

3. Let's Craft a Plan Together: We'll assess where you are, we gauge your personal risk. what we need vs. what we have, and then explore the next steps. We’ll provide an overview of your options, along with the advantages & disadvantages of each, using the Mold Timeline© as a framework.

Phases of the Timeline:

1. Project Launch: If you haven't had a sufficient inspection we will provide at least one lead for a qualified Class 3 or 4 Mold Inspector. However, please understand, we are NOT a referral service, and leads are just one small part in this. We’ll expand more on this later.

2. Understanding Your Needs & Budget: Before we can tailor a plan, we need a clear understanding of your situation. We'll discuss your concerns and most importantly, your budget. This upfront honesty helps us recommend solutions that fit the appropriate size and scope of your project.

   • For Larger Projects (Budget over $15k & Up): If your total budget comfortably exceeds $15k, you're a perfect candidate for our comprehensive project management approach.

   • For Smaller Projects (Budget under $10k): If your total budget is under $10k, we may need to explore alternative solutions together. While we can still offer guidance and resources, but a full-scale project management approach might not be the best fit.

3. Protocol & VRL Access: At this stage, we normally send out lead info & prior client feedback, along with Phase 2 & 3 of our VRL (Virtual Resource Library).

   • Part of your homework is to read our Finding a Mold Inspector blueprint & use our printable interview template to vet the inspectors that we referred to you. 

4. After Choosing an Inspector: Schedule your Inspection & keep us in the loop (always- communication during every step is essential).

5. Post Inspection Review: Our lead investigator (Peter) will read your report and review testing, then we will all meet for a strategy call.

6. Post Inspection Strategy Call Discussion:

   • What did the inspector find?

   • Cost analysis, budget?

   • What can we DIY, what can't we DIY?

   • What's most severe, what will make the most impact on health?

   • What type of sensitivities do you have, how susceptible are you?

   • What type of remediation & decon will fit your circumstance?

   • How contaminated is the house?

   • Sorting contents

   • Pack out

   • OOO: Order of Operations

   • What to realistically expect

   • What about selling? Disclosures?

   • Vetting Remediation Companies

   • Prepping for Your role

   • The timeline

   • How to clean

   • Is it worth it, etc.  

7. Remediation (if you choose this): This is where we really shine and when we work with clients the most. Our role is to empower you to see the bigger picture.

   1. We'll help you analyze the pros & cons of various remediation options, ensuring you understand the full range of possibilities.

   2. This includes exploring cost-saving strategies, DIY options, and potential consequences of different choices.

   3. We'll "play the tape forward" & examine the long-term implications of each path, allowing you to make sound judgments & well-informed decisions that align w/your budget & project goals.

   4. We will help you to vet companies & teach you how to find the best one for your job.

   5. We will help ensure your contracts are on point, and that the expected outcomes are what you desire.

8. Selling (if you choose this): If you decide you want to sell, we will guide you through the best options, next steps, disclosures, liability (to a degree), decontamination, moving, transitioning, risk, & looking for a temporary space, etc.

9. Sorting Contents & Decontamination: We specialize in teaching our students & members how to gauge their own risk. This includes how to assess your contents, and start prepping for your decontamination plan. Using our proprietary risk analysis & a wealth of resources from our library, we'll help you formulate a custom curated protocol based on your actual personal risk influences & circumstances including the specific products, techniques, and methods to apply.

10. Rewild Your Home: Microbiome Regeneration: We understand that a healthy home goes beyond just removing mold. Many of our members already do or end up subscribing to a "pro-microbiome" and "anti-sterility" philosophy. This means we focus not just on mitigating moisture, but also on fostering a balanced and beneficial microbiome within your home.

    Here's how we'll help you rewild your home:

    1. Strategic Re-Entry Guidance: We'll guide you through the safe and appropriate timing for re-entering your home after remediation.

    2. Microbiome Rejuvenation: We'll provide guidance on promoting a healthy balance of microorganisms in your home, creating a more resilient environment.

    3. Long-Term Sustainability: We'll equip you with the knowledge and resources to promote a healthy microbiome in your home for the long haul.

Q: Does the OCP take me through my entire journey?

A: Technically no, but yes...

The OCP: Onboarding Client Program itself is a targeted launch that equips you with the initial knowledge, pace and resources you need to get grounded.

Think of it as a stabilization phase.

You'll gain a clear understanding of your situation, your options, and we will develop a personalized roadmap for moving forward.

Once you're stabilized & “onboarded”, you’ll seamlessly transition into our ongoing membership support where our discounted, à la carte sessions offer the flexibility & scalability to address your specific needs as your situation evolves.

Q: Do you find me Inspection companies?

While we don't directly search for Inspection companies for you, we offer valuable resources & leads to make informed decisions:

1. Pre-vetted referral catalog: We hand-select candidates based on their commitment to ethical practices and quality service. We'll provide you with at least one inspection company, and our VRL resources equip you to evaluate additional options thoroughly.

2. Comprehensive VRL resources: Our library equips you with everything you need to evaluate potential companies, including: 

   1. Blueprints and PDFs outlining key considerations for inspections and remediation 

   2. Printable interview templates to ensure thorough assessment of candidates 

3. Leads & Vetting guidance: Even if you opt for companies outside our network, we'll guide you through the vetting process to ensure they align with your values and budget.

It's important to understand that the mold inspection industry is still evolving, and unfortunately, this can lead to high turnover among inspectors & remediation companies. To address this, we have a rigorous vetting system that's constantly updated. While recommendations may need to be refreshed every 3-6 months due to this industry dynamic, you can be confident we'll always prioritize the perfect fit for your needs.

Location becomes secondary when dealing with such specialized professionals. Our primary focus is matching you with an inspector whose qualifications perfectly align with your specific situation. This ensures a thorough inspection that identifies the root cause the first time, saving you from the hassle and expense of repeat inspections or unnecessary remediation work.

Here's how we make the difference:

1. In-depth consultation: We take the time to understand your unique goals and situation. This allows us to provide the most relevant inspector recommendation.

2. Adaptability: If your needs change or some time has passed since we last connected, simply let us know, and we'll ensure your recommendations are up-to-date.

During your member sessions, we can:

1. Discuss your budget openly: We'll work with you to create a plan that prioritizes your health and safety while respecting your financial limitations.

2. Explore cost-effective options: We'll guide you towards resources and strategies to save money, such as how to find & vet qualified inspectors in your price range and identifying any DIY tasks.

3. Prioritize remediation steps: We'll help you focus on the most critical & impacting actions, potentially allowing you to spread out costs over time.

Remember, even small steps towards understanding the issue and creating a plan can significantly reduce your anxiety and empower you to move forward.

Q: Do you find me a remediation company?

No, Referrals Don't Work for Remediation (But We Can Help!) To learn why it doesn’t work, keep reading…

Why We Don't Make Remediation Referrals (But May Offer Leads)

The world of mold remediation is a complex one, and its dynamic nature makes it challenging to maintain a list of referrable companies. Here's why:

1. High Turnover: The mold remediation industry experiences a high rate of inner company turnover. This means a great company today might not be around tomorrow, making a long-term list unreliable.

2. Rapid Scaling: Popularity, fueled by social media or celebrity endorsements, can lead companies to rapidly scale their operations. This rapid growth can sometimes compromise their original commitment to quality methods, and small, experienced crews. These crews are essential for the meticulous attention to detail required for effective remediation.

3. Shifting Practices: Even established companies may change their practices after achieving success. These changes might not align with our rigorous standards or the methods that originally made them successful.

Finding the Right Local Partner:

While we can't offer guaranteed referrals, we may have leads on reputable companies in your zone. We have worked with hundreds of companies in every state in the U.S. and even across the world. If we do have a lead, we will send them to you privately in a DM after your inspection strategy session. If we don’t, there is always a workaround.

What We Recommend Instead:

Recognizing these challenges, we've chosen a more realistic approach to helping your with selecting a remediation company. We prioritize providing reliable information and empowering you, the homeowner, to navigate the ever-changing landscape.

Here's how we can help:

1. Red Flags to Watch For: Once you find a company that passes the first phases of vetting, we will do a more technical vetting call. We will report back to you and highlight key indicators that can help you identify companies that might not be the best fit for your needs. We will also provide insight as to who may be a fit.

2. Essential Questions to Ask: You'll learn the crucial questions to pose to potential remediation companies, ensuring they align with your priorities and adhere to industry best practices.

3. Project Strategy Support: We won't leave you on your own. We'll offer guidance and support as you evaluate remediation companies and manage your project.

4. Project Management Support: We'll equip you with the knowledge and tools to confidently manage your remediation project. While we can't act as your direct project manager, we'll be your trusted advisor throughout the process, helping you:

   • Navigate Contractor Communication: We'll guide you on effectively communicating with remediation companies, ensuring clear expectations and a smooth project flow.

   • Stay on Top of Progress: We'll provide resources and checklists to help you monitor the remediation process, ensuring it adheres to the agreed-upon plan and timeline.

   • Advocate for Yourself: We'll empower you to ask the right questions, address concerns constructively, and make confident choices throughout the project.

How do I sign up?  

1. Link here to book our OCP, or visit our website booking page.

2. If you have worked with us already & have access to our portal, PLEASE be careful not to create a duplicate profile and please DO NOT add family members as profiles. If you don't use your original email or log in, it will think you are a brand new client.